AP Designer Homes vs Simonds Homes
An independent, side-by-side look at two of our building partners to help you understand your options.
Last updated June 2026 · reviewed by the BuildPilot team
Design Builder
Volume Builder
Note: BuildPilot partners with both builders. This comparison provides factual information to help you understand your options. It's not a recommendation of one over the other. The right builder depends on your specific needs, budget and preferences.
At a glance
- AP Designer Homes is a design builder; Simonds Homes is a volume builder.
- Indicative build rates: AP Designer Homes $2,800 - $4,000/sqm, Simonds Homes $1,800 - $2,500/sqm (per sqm guide only).
- AP Designer Homes is based in Adelaide; Simonds Homes in Victoria (National).
Quick Comparison
About Each Builder
AP Designer Homes
Designer Homes Adelaide
Architecturally designed homes across Adelaide with focus on premium design and finishes.
Often suited for:
Architectural design specialists
Premium construction process
Simonds Homes
Volume home builder (national)
A national volume builder with a presence in Adelaide's growth corridors, offering competitively priced pre-designed homes and first-home buyer packages.
Often suited for:
Efficient pre-designed homes focused on value and functionality
Streamlined construction process for efficient delivery
How Do I Choose?
There's no "better" builder. There's only the builder that's right for your situation. Consider these factors:
- 1Your budget and priorities
Different builders suit different price points. Think about what matters most: price, inclusions, customisation or service.
- 2Your land and location
Some builders specialise in certain areas or challenging sites. Consider who builds in your area and has experience with your block type.
- 3Your design requirements
Do you want to heavily modify a plan, or are you happy with standard designs? Different builders offer different levels of flexibility.
- 4Visit display homes
Nothing beats seeing their work in person. Visit display homes from both builders to compare quality and style firsthand.
AP Designer Homes vs Simonds Homes: common questions
Is AP Designer Homes or Simonds Homes more affordable?
As an indicative per-square-metre guide, AP Designer Homes sits around $2,800 - $4,000/sqm and Simonds Homes around $1,800 - $2,500/sqm. These are guides only - your real price depends on your design, inclusions, site costs and the current market, so get a written quote from each before comparing.
Which has been building longer, AP Designer Homes or Simonds Homes?
AP Designer Homes was established in Adelaide based and Simonds Homes in 1949.
Where does each builder operate?
AP Designer Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia. Simonds Homes is based in Victoria (National) and services South Australia & Victoria.
What warranty does AP Designer Homes and Simonds Homes offer?
AP Designer Homes offers a comprehensive warranty, and Simonds Homes offers a structural guarantee. Warranty terms can change, so confirm the current details directly with each builder.
Who is AP Designer Homes best suited to?
AP Designer Homes is often a good fit for architectural designs, premium finishes, design-led builds, unique homes. Architectural design specialists
Who is Simonds Homes best suited to?
Simonds Homes is often a good fit for budget-conscious buyers, northern adelaide, first home buyers, quick builds. Efficient pre-designed homes focused on value and functionality
Need Help Deciding?
BuildPilot can help you understand which builder might suit your specific situation. We work with both AP Designer Homes and Simonds Homes. Our job is to help you make the right choice for you - not push you toward whichever builder pays the most.
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